Expert: Dean Speir - 9/13/2009

Question
I was convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor in 2006 in West Virginia.  I served 5 days in county jail & kept out trouble for the six month "probation" period thereafter.  There were absolutely no weapons involved.  I have absolutely no convictions of any kind, not even tickets, since then.  My rights were taken & I'd like to find out how to & where I have to look to start the process of restoring my rights.  I currently live in Florida.  Thank you.

Answer
This is a Criminal Justice matter, and not one involving the Second Amendment... don't you people ever read any of the other Q&As before post your own Questions?!?

That said, you may have problems obtaining a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities since a conviction on any domestic violence charge, even one which happened before the the Lautenberg Amendment was passed (and therefore an ex post facto law), could be a lifetime prohibition on firearms.

But see here: http://www.atf.gov/firearms/faq/faq2.htm#q14

(Q14) Is an individual who has been pardoned, or whose conviction was expunged or set aside, or whose civil rights have been restored, considered convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence?

No, as long as the pardon, expungement, or restoration does not expressly provide that the person may not ship, transport, possess, or receive firearms.

But definitely consult an attorney in your jurisdiction.